After months of speculation and numerous reports in the media, Arsenal have finally announced the club’s first signing of the summer. The Gunners’ have released a statement saying that the Schalke left-back Sead Kolasinac has joined the club on a long-term deal. Kolasinac, who’s contract at the Veltins Arena expired over the summer, has joined on a free transfer.
Arsenal’s official confirmation further goes on to state that the player will start pre-season training in July along with his new teammates subject to the completion of all regulatory procedures. The signing comes as a huge boost for the Gunners considering that the Bosnian is widely regarded as the best left-back in the Bundesliga, which is backed up by the player’s inclusion in the Bundesliga Team of the Season this term.
In my opinion, this is a massive step forward for Arsenal. Apart from being a quality left-back, Kolasinac is also a versatile player capable of playing at centre-back and in defensive midfield. The 23-year-old is known for his strength, speed and aggression and will bring a level of tenacity and leadership to the Gunners’ defence, which could use all of those attributes and more at the moment.
But what makes me most happy about the announcement is that its come so early. Arsenal have left it late too often in the transfer window, with last season being a prime example of it. With Kolasinac being confirmed so early on in the summer, one can only hope that Wenger will swoop for the rest of his targets quickly as well. A full pre-season for our new signings along with their new teammates will help them settle in faster and build the platform for the team to start the season strong.
AT